Richmond, VA

Department of Social Services

Emergency Assistance

Last Updated: 2015-01-27

Emergency Assistance (EA) provides short-term, limited financial assistance to individuals and families
with children when a fire or other natural disaster has destroyed those things necessary for taking
care of the household. EA may also be available to assist in a housing emergency if the person had no
control over the circumstances of the emergency.

What does Emergency Assistance cover?

Emergency Assistance payments can be made for shelter (for example rent, utilities, moving costs), or
the repair or replacement of essential household items. The amount of assistance cannot be more
than $500 in any 12-month period.

For more information:

Call 3-1-1 for information on the application process or to speak with a customer service
representative.